Seal of Biliteracy
Lawrence Public Schools USD 497
Knowledge of more than one language and culture is advantageous for all students … Bilingualism is an individual and societal asset.
Prek-12 English Language Proficiency Standards, TESOL International Association, 2006
What is the Kansas Seal of Biliteracy?
The Kansas Seal of Biliteracy will be awarded by the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) and a local school district to recognize each student who has attained proficiency in English and one or more other world languages by the time of graduation. It is a statement of accomplishment that recognizes a student’s readiness for career and college, and for engagement as a global citizen.
Why get the Seal of Biliteracy?
Eligibility
To earn the Seal of Biliteracy in Kansas, students must:
demonstrate proficiency in English
demonstrate proficiency in language other than English
meet all of the requirements for graduation
Applications must be completed by March, 19 2024. Click HERE TO START YOUR APPLICATION!
To be acknowledged at 2024 graduation, students need to have completed Seal of Biliteracy proficiency assessments no later than SECOND Friday in April.
Language Proficiency Requirements
Proof of proficiency in English
Students must provide evidence of English from a Kansas validated assessment of English proficiency. Qualifying tests include:
The Kansas English Language Proficiency Assessment (KELPA)
The Kansas English Language Arts Assessment (most often taken in 10th grade)
ACT Reading or English Score of 20 or higher
ACT Writing Score of 6 or higher
Proof of proficiency in a language other than English
Students must provide evidence of proficiency in a language other than English. Qualifying tests include:
AP Exam
AAPPL
STAMP
For a full list of qualifying proficiency exams, see the Kansas State Seal of Biliteracy Guidelines.
Gold Level
Students must demonstrate language proficiency at the Advanced Low level or higher in all four language skills (Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening).
Silver Level
Students must demonstrate language proficiency at the Intermediate Mid level or higher in all four language skills (Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening).
GuideLines for Kansas seal of Biliteracy.pdf